Tips for Self-Publishing Authors

Your book is finally taking shape. The words are down, the edit is done, and now? Now comes the part that terrifies and thrills: the cover.

If you’re self-publishing, hiring a professional designer can make a world of difference, but only if you approach the process with clarity and preparation.

Here’s how to work with a cover designer so you get a beautiful, effective cover, and enjoy the process too!

1. Know your genre and audience

Before reaching out to a designer, do a little homework. What’s standard in your genre? What do bestsellers look like? Your cover doesn’t need to copy them, but it does need to signal the right expectations to readers. A business book shouldn’t look like a fantasy novel, and vice versa.

Tip: Save a handful of comp covers to share with your designer, possibly as a Pinterest board. It helps communicate the vibe you’re going for.

2. Fill out a thorough design brief

Designers aren’t mind readers. A good brief includes:

Your title, subtitle, and author name exactly as they should appear
Your book’s genre and target audience
A short description or elevator pitch
Your keywords (e.g. bold and minimalist vs. intricate and story-driven)
Any specific imagery, colors, or styles to avoid or include
Covers you like (see step 1)
Print specs and platform requirements (e.g. IngramSpark vs. KDP)

💫 Use this Cover Design Brief Template: fill out the form and you’ll get a Word document via email that you can edit or forward directly to your designer.

3. Trust the process (but ask questions)

Your designer brings visual expertise, while you bring the vision. Be open to their suggestions, but don’t be afraid to speak up if something doesn’t feel right. A good designer will welcome collaboration and feedback.

Remember: feedback should be clear and constructive. Try “Can we explore a version without the background texture?” instead of “I don’t like it.”

4. Leave time for iteration

Don’t rush. The best covers often come after a few rounds of drafts and tweaks. Build in buffer time so you’re not reviewing final proofs the night before your print deadline.

5. Understand what you’re getting

Clarify what files you’ll receive:

Paperback and/or hardback cover (PDF or print-ready)
eBook cover (JPEG)
Social media graphics?
Editable files?

Also: Will the design be adapted for each format, or just resized?

6. Celebrate and promote!

Once you have your final cover, shout it from the rooftops. It’s a huge milestone, and your designer will appreciate the shoutout too.

Bonus Resources:

Need help preparing your book files and metadata?

🧭 Check out my Self-Publishing Companion Package

💫 Use the FREE Cover Design Brief Template

How to Work with a Cover Designer